The Nicolini family name may not be a name that you’ve heard among the legions of celebrity restaurateurs kicking around at the moment, but chances are you’ve indulged in a hearty bowl of pasta or crisp triangle of pizza in one of their restaurants.

With a role call that includes local favourites like Carlton Espresso, +39 and Non Solo Pasta, diners can be assured pizza and pasta runs through second-generation restaurateur Remo Nicolini’s veins and his latest venture,Itali.co in St Kilda.

Itali.co may have just topped Epicure’s list for best pizza in Melbourne but the menu covers much more, with a thoughtful selection of dishes based on traditional Italian cuisine finessed with a modern twist. You may have trouble choosing from share plates, handmade pasta and a carefully curated choice of mains.

For Remo, Itali.co represents the learning and hard work gathered over his years living in his native Italy, and from his time in the restaurant business – that all diners want value for money and quality food.

The upcoming Autumn/Winter menu, created and curated by head chefs Piero Roldo and Lino Maglione, include highlights such as creamy cauliflower pannacotta, slow cooked beef cheek and black ink taglionlini served with a mountain of fresh seafood on a bed of house made squid ink pasta.

Vegetarians are spoilt for choice with a selection of 15 pizzas, including the award-winning “Bunga Bunga“($18.5), named after Italy’s former (and perhaps future) president Silvio Berlusconi.

The traditional cassata with ricotta and chocolate fondue and a Nutella Pizza with mountains of strawberries completes the experience and indulgence.

Itali.co will also be hosting a Sardinian dining experience on April 23. The menu will include hand made dumplings and suckling pig roasted over a spit. For bookings phone 9537 5300 or visit italico.com.au.